Mulino reiterates his strong fist against drug trafficking in Panama

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino reiterated his tough fight against drug trafficking and organized crime during a graduation ceremony for new police officers. Underlining the need for international cooperation with various Latin American countries, he warned that "with me, Panama will not be subjected to drug trafficking, let that be clear. Either the narcos or us".

Mulino defended recent security operations, including the transfer of highly dangerous prisoners to the prison on the island of Coiba. Responding to criticism of prison conditions, he cited the El Salvador model, reiterating that there is no dialogue with gangs, but rigorous isolation is needed.

Referring to the negative reactions resulting from the transfers, he used a popular saying to state that "you only have to hit the pig for the master to appear".

Addressing the new policemen, he urged them to enforce the law without discounts for anyone. "Here, no one is above the law. If an official of my government commits a crime, they arrest him, because we are not privileged or blessed", he assured, concluding his speech with a clear warning for the restoration of security: "Gentlemen, either we bring order or they will win with chaos".